Winnipeg, MB – Renovations on the historic Carnegie Library will begin this month. The site at 380 William Avenue is being redeveloped to once again house the City of Winnipeg Archives.
“With renovations beginning at the future home of the City of Winnipeg Archives, the city is one step closer to providing a renewed space to preserve and celebrate its history,” said the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “We are proud to support projects that strengthen communities and create lasting benefits for generations to come.”
Rainstorm damage in 2013 forced the Archives to temporarily move. The current location at 50 Myrtle Street was a short-term solution. It is not designed for long-term preservation of the City’s irreplaceable records.
“Manitoba’s history is one of resilience, collaboration and shared pride, and nowhere is that more evident than in the stories preserved within our archives,” said the Honourable Glen Simard, Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations. “By investing in this historic space together — municipal, provincial and federal partners united — we are ensuring that future generations can learn from our past while building a stronger future. This project shows what’s possible when all levels of government work toward a common goal.”
This Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project will give the Archives a permanent space for generations to come.
“The City of Winnipeg Archives preserves the stories that shaped who we are as a community,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “Restoring the historic Carnegie Library as a permanent home for these records ensures our city’s history will be protected and shared with future generations. As the Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project, this redevelopment celebrates both our past and the city we’re building for the future.”
The archival collection isn’t the only piece of history being preserved. The building was Winnipeg’s first public library. It opened its doors for the first time 120 years ago this month. This redevelopment will breathe new life into the downtown landmark.
“Preserving our past is an investment in Winnipeg’s future,” said Councillor Evan Duncan, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development. “This redevelopment allows Winnipeggers to engage directly with our city’s deep and diverse history in a space designed to protect and celebrate it. The Carnegie Library has stood as a symbol of learning and community for over a century, and restoring it to serve as our City Archives ensures that legacy continues for generations to come.”
The revitalized facility will feature a climate-controlled storage vault. It will have space to support reconciliation activities such as smudging, ceremonies, and displays. There will also be room for public programming and research.
“We saw during the Winnipeg 150 anniversary just what the City’s history means to residents,” said Konrad Krahn, City Archivist. “To move into a space that is built purposely for Archives will ensure this City’s records will be protected, preserved, and accessible for years to come.”
Council approved $22.765 million for the renovations.
Construction is expected to the completed in 2027.